Every vaper has likely experienced the unpleasant sensation of a burnt hit. It’s that acrid, harsh taste that can make you cough and leave an unpleasant aftertaste. Burnt hits not only ruin the vaping experience but can also deter people from vaping altogether. Understanding why burnt hits occur and how to prevent them is crucial for a smooth, enjoyable vaping experience. This article will delve into the causes of burnt hits, how to prime your vape coils properly, and other tips to ensure you avoid this common issue.
Burnt Hits vs. Dry Hits
Although often used interchangeably, burnt hits and dry hits are different. A dry hit occurs when the wick of the coil dries out slightly, leading to reduced flavor and vapor production without the harshness of a burnt hit. A burnt hit, on the other hand, happens when the wick inside the coil burns because it lacks sufficient e-liquid to vaporize. This results in the user inhaling the burnt cotton, leading to a harsh and unpleasant experience.
Common Causes of Burnt Hits
Burnt hits are primarily due to inadequate e-liquid on the wicks, causing the coils to burn the wick material. Here are some common scenarios that can lead to burnt hits and how to avoid them:
High Wattages
Vaping at wattages exceeding the coil’s recommended range can vaporize e-liquid too rapidly, leading to dry and burnt wicks. Always follow the manufacturer’s recommended wattage range for your coils.
Chain Vaping
Taking several puffs in quick succession can dry out the wick faster than it can re-saturate, leading to a burnt hit. If you sense a burnt hit coming, take a break to allow the wick to absorb more e-liquid.
High-VG E-Liquids
Not all vape tanks are designed to handle high-VG (vegetable glycerin) e-liquids due to their thicker consistency. Ensure your tank is compatible with high-VG e-liquids by checking the size of the wick channels; smaller channels may not wick high-VG e-liquids effectively.
Improperly Primed Coils
One of the most common causes of burnt hits is failing to prime new coils properly. Priming involves saturating the coil’s wick with e-liquid before use, ensuring it doesn’t burn when you first vape.
How to Prime Your Coils
Priming your coils is essential to prevent burnt hits. Here’s how to prime different types of vape coils:
Priming Vape Tank Coils
- Remove the New Coil: Take a new coil out of the box.
- Drip E-Liquid: Drip a few drops of e-liquid on the wicking holes and inside the coil head.
- Assemble the Tank: Put your tank together and fill it with e-liquid.
- Wait: Allow the tank to sit for 10 minutes to let the e-liquid saturate the wick.
- Inhale Without Firing: Inhale a few times on the tank without firing the device to help speed up the saturation process.
- Start at Low Wattage: If using a mod with wattage adjustment, start at the lowest recommended wattage and gradually increase it to your desired level.
Priming Refillable Pod Systems
- Fill the Pod: Fill the pod with e-liquid.
- Wait: Let it sit for 10 minutes to ensure the wick is fully saturated.
- Inhale Without Battery: Inhale a few times on the pod itself to push e-liquid into the wicking channels.
- Start Vaping: Begin with shorter puffs to break in the coil before taking longer drags.
Identifying a Burnt Coil
If you experience a burnt hit, your coil might need replacing. Here’s how to tell if your coil is burnt:
- Burnt Taste: A persistent burnt taste after a hit indicates the coil is burnt.
- Loss of Flavor: A significant drop in flavor quality can be a sign of a failing coil.
- Reduced Vapor Production: If your vapor production drops significantly, it might be time to change the coil.
How Often to Change Coils
Coils degrade over time and usage, and there’s no fixed lifespan for them. Factors that influence coil longevity include:
- Consumption: The more e-liquid you vape, the faster your coil will degrade.
- E-liquid Ingredients: Sweet, high-VG e-liquids can clog coils faster.
- Wattages: Vaping at higher wattages can reduce coil life.
Typically, coils last between five days to two weeks, depending on usage. Regularly changing your coil ensures optimal flavor and vapor production.
Dealing with a Burnt Hit
If you get a burnt hit, replace the coil if the taste persists. Sometimes, a new coil might be defective. If you suspect a coil is faulty, replace it with a new one. Always ensure you prime new coils properly to avoid burnt hits.
Preventing Burnt Hits
Here are some additional tips to prevent burnt hits:
- Monitor E-Liquid Levels: Ensure your tank or pod always has sufficient e-liquid.
- Avoid High Wattages: Stay within the recommended wattage range for your coil.
- Take Breaks: Avoid chain vaping to give the wick time to re-saturate.
- Use Compatible E-Liquids: Ensure your e-liquid’s PG/VG ratio is suitable for your device.
Conclusion
Burnt hits are a common issue that can spoil the vaping experience. However, by understanding their causes and taking preventive measures, you can avoid them. Properly priming your coils, monitoring your e-liquid levels, and using the right wattages are crucial steps to ensure a smooth and enjoyable vape. If you experience a burnt hit, don’t be discouraged—replace the coil, prime it properly, and continue enjoying your vaping experience.
